An option for ratepayers

Paying rates can be a heavy burden for low income ratepayers, especially older people on fixed incomes. The Rates Postponement Scheme has been set up to give ratepayers the option to postpone payment. Its strongest appeal is to older ratepayers as it gives them an additional tool for managing on a limited income. It is an initiative that was set up by a group of New Zealand councils known as the Rates Postponement Consortium.

Councils that offer this scheme adhere to the generic principles that have been developed by the consortium. However, councils can have varying policies, for example around eligibility and conditions of postponement.

The scheme is managed by RP Scheme Managers Ltd, a subsidiary of McKinlay Douglas Ltd.

For a list of councils currently offering rates postponement, click here…